Cleaning Chemicals

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Cleaning Chemicals

Chemical cleaning products include a wide variety of substances in the form of liquids, powders, and sprays. These products are used to clean dirt, dust, or grease on surfaces. Cleaning chemicals are important for cleaning hospitals, homes, workplaces, schools, etc., as they are often found in products like soaps, grooming materials, and “green” cleaning materials.  These products may contain harmful chemicals that can create health problems or can be flammable and corrosive. Some beauty and cleaning products even contain volatile organic compounds (VOC) and other toxic substances, which can be highly harmful to human health. For example, VOC’s are found in some air fresheners, chlorine bleach, dishwashing liquid, detergent, rug cleaner, furniture polish, and oven cleaners. Chemical cleaning products are subjected to a variety of federal labeling as well as registration requirements by EPA, OSHA, FDA, DOT, CPSC, and other agencies. All employers are required to provide a safe workplace. This may include training on such harmful chemicals.

 

  1. Protection Includes:
  • Always read labels on cleaning supplies.
    • Never remove labels.
  • Choose products that have a reduced amount or no Volatile Organic Compounds.
  • Use green or natural cleaning products.
  • Keep continuous airflow/ventilation when using cleaning products.
  • Use PPE, when needed.
  • Employees must be trained on safe work practices involving cleaning chemicals.
    • Employees must be aware of the hazards of a cleaning material before using it.
    • Employees must know chemical safety procedures.
    • Employees must know what to do in the case of a spill or other emergency.
    • Employees must know how to use MSDS to find detailed information on products.
    • Employees must know how and when to use PPE.
  • As a safe cleaning alternative:
    • A mixture of vinegar and water can be used to clean glass.
    • Soap and warm water can be used, especially at home.
    • Baking soda can be used for scrubbing.
  • Always wash your hands with soap after using chemical cleaning products.
  • EPA has list of safe cleaning products that can be used for cleaning at home or at the workplace.